Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced plans to restrict social media access for children under 15, aiming to curb online risks like cyberbullying and data exploitation. The proposal, set for legislative review, targets platforms like Meta and TikTok, which derive significant revenue from young users. While specifics on enforcement remain unclear, the move signals growing global scrutiny of tech giants’ youth engagement strategies.

Market analysts warn the ban could disrupt ad-driven revenue models, as platforms heavily rely on underage demographics for engagement metrics. For instance, TikTok’s user base skews heavily toward teens, while Meta’s platforms like Instagram and Facebook face similar dependencies. Investors may reassess valuations if compliance costs rise or user growth slows. Regulatory uncertainty could also delay expansion plans in Greece, impacting regional tech investments.

The decision aligns with broader EU efforts to tighten digital safeguards, though Greece’s approach is more stringent than current frameworks. Critics argue the policy risks alienating families reliant on digital tools for education and socialization. Meanwhile, Apple and Google face pressure to develop age-verification tools to comply with potential restrictions. Businesses tied to youth-oriented content—such as gaming and streaming services—may need to pivot strategies to avoid penalties.

This regulatory shift underscores intensifying tensions between privacy advocates and tech firms. While digital privacy laws gain traction, the economic fallout for platforms remains uncertain. Greece’s bold stance could set a precedent, forcing global operators to rethink how they monetize young audiences. Stakeholders await clarity on implementation timelines and penalties for non-compliance.